Champions League Betting – Lyon vs Barcelona

The UEFA Champions League R16 tie between Olympique Lyonnais and FC Barcelona should be one of the most interesting affairs on the books today at BetOnline Sportsbook. Most sports bettors anticipate an exciting, high-paced and high-scoring clash as both teams enters this match in good form and full of optimism. Better get started handicapping then.

Soccer Betting Line:

Olympique Lyonnais +½ -115 +300 2½ O Ev U -120 1 O -105 U -125 Draw +230

FC Barcelona -½ -105 -105 2½ O Ev U -120 1½ O +110 U -140 Draw +230

Match Time: 02:45 P.M. Eastern Time Tuesday 24 February 2009

Venue: Stade de Gerland

Soccer Betting Analysis

Olympique Lyonnais +300:

Road to Last 16: Lyon finished second in Group F behind Bayern Munich. They were in a relatively easy group and hauled 11 points with 3-2-1.

Current Form: Lyon is closing in on the French Ligue 1 title. They have become one of the largest clubs in France and in the last few years, they have been moving from strength to strength. They are at the top of the lead six points clear of the competition. They are optimistic and confident.

FC Barcelona -105:

Road to Last 16: Barcelona topped Group C with 13 points but as their group was a relatively easy one it was expected they would. They reached the top with 4-1-1 mark.

Current Form: Barcelona recently had their 14-match undefeated run in all competitions stalled when they lost the local derby against Espanyol. The timing of this loss could not have been worse for one of the Champions League favourites for the titles. They lost 2:1 at home.

Soccer Betting Verdict: Despite their recent setback Barcelona enters this match as the bookies favourite. And they are the visitors. Indeed, they are a formidable side and definitely warrant the favouritism. But Lyon at +300! If their Champions League campaign and domestic campaign were an indication then I would say they are heavily underestimated in this match. Lyon has shown they are not afraid of anyone and they certainly won’t be afraid of Barcelona. They have home edge after all and the full force of the partisan crowd to carry them to victory. For online bettors not buying what they are selling then I would recommend the draw. Lyon will hope to share in the spoils if not win.

Soccer Betting Free Picks: Lyon +300 | Over 2.5 goals Even

Nila Amerova is a freelance sports writer and regular contributor to the BetOnline.com Locker Room